What Should I Know Before Moving to Reading?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in Reading. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for Reading climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in Reading?

Moving within Reading usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to Reading?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in Reading. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in Reading Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in Reading offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from Reading, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from Reading at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

Moving to Reading, MA | Find Trusted Movers & Services

Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Reading, MA

Considering a move to Reading, MA? This friendly Boston suburb of 25,518 residents offers a safe and welcoming community, with a notably low violent crime rate of just 52 per 100K. Homes are in high demand, with a median price around $755,000 and average 2-bedroom rents at $2,350, reflecting the area’s top-rated schools and strong incomes. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 31 minutes, excellent healthcare access, and four scenic seasons with 54% sunny days. Discover Reading’s standout education, low poverty rate, and vibrant family atmosphere—perfect for those seeking suburban comfort near the city.

Demographics - Reading, MA

Reading, MA is a vibrant Boston suburb with a population of 25,518, characterized by a predominantly White community and a median age of 42. With a moderate population density and over 8% non-English speakers, the town offers a welcoming and diverse environment suitable for families and professionals alike.

Population:

25,518

Density:

2,800 per sq mi

Median Age:

42.0

Gender Ratio:

95 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

8.5%

Ethnic Composition

White:

89.0%

Black:

1.3%

Asian:

6.2%

Others:

3.5%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Reading, MA?

Living in Reading comes with a higher cost of living index of 142, driven largely by a median home value of $755,000 and average rents of $2,350. Residents can expect moderate utility and grocery expenses, with Massachusetts state taxes ranging from 5% to 9%.

Median House Value:

$755,000

Gross Rent:

$2,350

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$150

Auto Insurance:

$1,650

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$3,050

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$890

State Taxes:

Low:

5.0%

High:

9.0%

Cost Of Living Index:

142.0

Grocery:

116.0

Housing:

180.0

Utilities:

112.0

Transportation:

123.0

Health Care:

114.0

Miscellaneous:

109.0

Crime

Is Reading, MA a safe place to live?

Reading boasts a notably low crime rate, with just 52 violent crimes and 590 property crimes per 100,000 people, making it one of the safer Boston-area suburbs. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is just 1 in 1,900, offering peace of mind for families and individuals.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

Property Crimes Per 100k:

590

Crime Index:

642

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 1,900

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 170

Weather

What is the weather like in Reading, MA year-round?

Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 18°F and warm summers peaking at 83°F. The area receives about 47 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 54% of days, providing a balance of seasonal variety and outdoor opportunities.

Winter

Min:

18°F

Max:

37°F

Spring

Min:

41°F

Max:

65°F

Summer

Min:

63°F

Max:

83°F

Fall

Min:

42°F

Max:

67°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

47 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

54%

Neighbors

Households in Reading enjoy a median income of $143,500 and a low poverty rate of 2.5%, reflecting a prosperous and stable community. With nearly 98% of residents holding at least a high school diploma and an average commute of 31 minutes, the town is well-suited for working families and commuters.

Median Income:

$60,000

Household Income:

$143,500

Family Income:

$159,000

Per Capita Income:

$61,800

Income Male:

$82,000

Income Female:

$60,000

Poverty Rate:

2.5%

Non English Speakers:

8.5%

Rent:

$2,350

Unemployment Rate:

3.2%

Public Transport Usage:

13.5%

Commute Time:

31.2 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

97.5%

Bachelors or More:

62.0%

Education

How are the schools in Reading, MA?

Reading is known for its top-rated public schools, such as Reading Memorial High School, and offers access to respected private institutions. The town is also close to prominent colleges like Tufts University and Middlesex Community College, making it ideal for families prioritizing education.

Public Schools

Name:

Reading Memorial High School

Street:

62 Oakland Rd

Phone:

781-944-8200

Students:

1,270

Student Teacher Ratio:

13.0

Name:

Coolidge Middle School

Street:

89 Birch Meadow Dr

Phone:

781-942-9158

Students:

520

Student Teacher Ratio:

12.5

Private Schools

Name:

Austin Preparatory School

Street:

101 Willow St

Phone:

781-944-4900

Students:

800

Colleges

Name:

Middlesex Community College

City:

Bedford

State:

Distance:

12 miles

Students:

7,000

Name:

Tufts University

City:

Medford

State:

Distance:

10 miles

Students:

11,500

Healthcare

Reading residents benefit from excellent healthcare access, with major hospitals like Winchester Hospital and Lahey Hospital nearby and over 97% health insurance coverage. The high ratio of physicians (4 per 1,000 people) ensures timely and quality medical care.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Winchester Hospital

Address:

41 Highland Ave, Winchester, MA 01890

Phone:

(781) 729-9000

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Name:

Lahey Hospital & Medical Center

Address:

41 Mall Rd, Burlington, MA 01805

Phone:

(781) 744-5100

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

4.0

Health Insurance Coverage:

97.8%

Health Care Index:

80.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Reading, MA?

The housing market in Reading is competitive, with a median home price of $755,000 and an 83.6% owner-occupancy rate. Low rental vacancy and a 4.2% annual home appreciation reflect strong demand and stable investment opportunities.

Median Home Price:

$755,000

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$2,350

Owner Occupied Rate:

83.6%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

2.4%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

4.2%

New Construction Rate:

1.1%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.3%

DMV Information

Vehicle services for Reading residents are handled by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Boston. The RMV provides comprehensive licensing and registration services, with information and resources available online.

State:

Massachusetts

Department:

Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles

Address:

136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109

Phone:

1-857-368-8000

Website:

https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-registry-of-motor-vehicles

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.